ABSTRACT
How and when a group member raises the issue of termination is often a reflection of the work that has been accomplished so far. The first question from the therapist may be whether this is a conversation or a decision. Readiness for termination may be explored with reference to interpersonal learning, the corrective recapitulation of the family of origin, the ability to engage in adaptive imitative behavior and the ability to develop some capacity for universality and altruism. The degree to which a given patient has made progress in these areas may indicate his or her readiness to transition out of the group.
Termination is a developmental phase where resistance and transference are understood and worked through, defenses are loosened with decreased reliance on primitive defenses and drives are sublimated and frustration for tolerance is established. An observing ego and a firmer sense of self are established, psychic structure is laid and object relations are improved with increased capacity for intimate relations, pleasure and play. Symptoms associated with the disease of addiction are reduced if not eliminated. Goals of termination include the acceptance of limitations, needing others, imperfection and authenticity. Group members may be completers, plateauers or flee-ers. Group members who have left a group may also wish to rejoin the group.
Termination evokes deep feelings and the experience of loss, death and incomplete good-byes. Feelings include guilt and fear of hurting others.
Termination of group sessions may involve “doorknobs,” comments made at the end of a group session that may carry added meaning and feelings that the group is resistant to examining at that time. The suppression of feelings characteristic of addiction creates deadness in the here and now, illuminating the process of slow suicide in active addiction. Psychotherapy groups may be ended for different reasons including therapists relocating, reducing their work schedule or retiring. Therapists also need to consider their own mortality.
